The Cornish Rebellion

The Cornish Rebellion of 1497 was a protest against King Henry VII’s tax plans, which aimed to fund wars in Scotland and France. Made up mainly of miners, farmers, and workers from Cornwall, the rebels felt the taxes were unfair and burdensome, especially since Cornwall was economically struggling. They gathered in groupings, marched towards London, and briefly threatened the king’s authority. The rebellion was eventually suppressed, with many rebels killed or captured. It highlighted regional resentment towards royal taxation and underscored the challenges Henry VII faced in consolidating control after his ascension to the throne.